How to Verify Your Realtor's Credentials and License in Alberta

Quick Answer: Search the agent's name in the Real Estate Council of Alberta's (RECA) public registry to confirm they're currently licensed, in good standing, and free of unresolved disciplinary action. Then confirm which brokerage they're licensed under, since every practicing agent in Alberta must be attached to one. It takes about two minutes and it's the one check that's fully verifiable, unlike reviews or referrals.

Step 1: Search the RECA Registry

RECA maintains a public, searchable registry of every licensed real estate professional in Alberta. Search by name to confirm the license is active, see how long they've been licensed, and check their license category (there are separate categories for residential, commercial, and property management, among others).

Step 2: Check Standing and Disciplinary History

The registry also shows whether an agent is in good standing or has any disciplinary history on file. A clean record isn't a guarantee of quality, but a disciplinary history is worth understanding before you sign anything — ask the agent directly about it rather than walking away without context.

Step 3: Confirm Their Brokerage

Every licensed agent in Alberta must be registered under a brokerage — they can't legally practice independently. Confirm the brokerage matches what the agent has told you, and that the brokerage itself is in good standing. This also tells you who carries oversight responsibility for the agent's conduct.

What Designations Actually Mean

REALTOR® is a trademarked term used by members of the Canadian Real Estate Association and local boards like CREB — not every licensed agent is automatically a REALTOR®, though most practicing Calgary agents are. Beyond that, you'll see additional designations and certifications on some agents' marketing. These can reflect real additional training, but they're not a substitute for RECA licensing, which is the actual legal requirement to practice.

What License Verification Won't Tell You

A clean license confirms an agent is legally allowed to practice and hasn't run into regulatory trouble — it doesn't tell you if they're a good fit for your specific sale, responsive, or skilled at negotiation. Treat licensing verification as the minimum bar, not the deciding factor. Pair it with a real look at their recent local sales and how they handle your interview questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if a realtor is licensed in Alberta?

Search their name in the Real Estate Council of Alberta's (RECA) public registry, which shows license status, category, and any disciplinary history.

Does every real estate agent have to work under a brokerage in Alberta?

Yes. Alberta doesn't allow agents to practice independently — every licensed agent must be registered under a brokerage, which also carries oversight responsibility.

Is REALTOR® the same as being licensed?

Not exactly. Licensing through RECA is the legal requirement to practice; REALTOR® is a trademarked designation for members of the Canadian Real Estate Association and local boards, which most practicing Calgary agents hold in addition to their license.